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1
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key factor in endothelial injury during atherogenesis, particularly influenced by oxidized LDL.
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2
Ethanolic extracts from Rosmarinus officinalis, Cynara cardunculus, and Myrtus communis were evaluated for their protective effects on endothelial cells.
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3
The extracts preserved mitochondrial membrane potential and reversed pro-fission gene expression in a model of ox-LDL-induced damage.
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4
Cynara cardunculus significantly upregulated PINK1 and PARKIN, enhancing mitophagy, while the other extracts favored receptor-mediated clearance.
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5
Herbal extracts improved antioxidant defenses and reduced inflammation, suggesting potential for early atherosclerosis prevention through mitochondrial quality control.